Get ready for a hilarious twist on reality TV as Oliver Callan boldly declares that 'The Traitors Ireland' sensation Paudie Moloney is a natural-born actor, and this unexpected talent is about to steal the spotlight in Callan's upcoming satirical sketch show, Callan Kicks The Year 2025. But here's where it gets intriguing: Paudie, affectionately known as 'The Paudfather,' isn't just another reality star dipping his toes into acting—he's a retired prison guard who, alongside his son Andrew, became a breakout star on the hit show. So, what happens when a seasoned impressionist like Callan teams up with a reality TV icon? Is this a match made in comedy heaven, or a risky gamble that could fall flat?
Callan, known for his sharp wit and uncanny impressions, is gearing up for a two-part special set to air on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player on December 30th at 9:30 pm and December 31st at 9:20 pm. This marks his sixth consecutive annual review, and he's pulling out all the stops. In a recent press chat, Callan revealed that Paudie was an instant yes for the show. 'When he arrived on set, I discovered he's a die-hard Callan's Kicks fan,' Callan shared with a laugh. 'Who knew retired prison officers had a soft spot for establishment satire?'
But here's the part most people miss: Paudie isn't just playing himself—he's acting, and according to Callan, he's surprisingly good at it. 'Paudie can act, and I mean really act. He's better than some of our supporting cast, if I'm being honest,' Callan admitted. In the sketch, the duo finds themselves in an alternate universe reminiscent of The Traitors, but with a hilarious twist: instead of hunting traitors, they're trying to identify landlords among a group of tenants. 'Paudie was an absolute riot, and his acting chops were on full display,' Callan added.
As Callan reflects on the past year, he notes it was ripe for satire. 'The only way to make sense of messy years is through comedy,' he quipped. From the dramatic Presidential race to Eoin Hayes' scandal, Trump's tariffs, and the Bezos wedding, there's no shortage of material. But here's where it gets controversial: Callan takes aim at Ireland's Presidential election, calling it 'the most bananas we've ever had.' He jokingly questions the logic behind electing a candidate based on their ability to do keepy-uppies rather than their policies. 'Is this the kind of leadership we deserve, or is it a reflection of our priorities?' he provocatively asks.
Callan's new impressions, including Móglaí Bap with a precise Belfast accent and Elon Musk's tricky South African-American hybrid, showcase his dedication to perfection. 'The hardest impressions are always the most rewarding,' he said. Meanwhile, his RTÉ Radio 1 show has expanded to a two-hour slot from 11 am to 1 pm, a change he initially approached with caution. 'Can you still deliver a morning monologue when everyone's already caught up on the news?' he wondered. But Callan found his niche by focusing on quirky asides and curiosities, blending entertainment with subtle education—a hallmark of his comedy.
And this is the part that sparks debate: Callan believes his shows, whether on TV or radio, should leave audiences laughing while prompting serious reflection. 'Comedy isn't just about laughs; it's about making people think,' he stated. As he juggles multiple projects, including his radio show and the upcoming special, Callan shows no signs of slowing down. 'It’s amazing what you can do when you have to,' he said, crediting his mid-40s energy boost and a break from alcohol for keeping him going. But here's the question: In an era of fast-paced media, can Callan's blend of humor and social commentary continue to resonate, or is he preaching to the choir? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
